News Release

Friday, September 23, 2005

Young Girl Found Dead, Identity Unknown

Los Angeles: The body of an unidentified Hispanic woman was found by police just after 5 AM this morning, September 23, 2005, after police received a call about a dead body.

Newton Street Homicide detectives have been unable to identify the woman and are asking the public and the media’s help.

"Someone knows this young woman," said Detective Frank Weber. "We need to identify her. It's an important step in solving her murder, and she deserves better than to be known as Jane Doe."

The woman died from an apparent gunshot wound or wounds; detectives are not being more specific at this time.

Newton patrol officers found the woman's body at 1360 E. 45th Street. She is described as Hispanic, with a fair complexion. She appeared 17 to 23 years old. Her nose and bottom lip were pierced, and her eyebrows were shaved. She was about 5 feet 4 inches tall and weighed 135 pounds. Her long hair was dyed blond, but had dark brown roots. She was wearing a black halter top; tight, faded blue jeans, which were cuffed at the bottom; and high heel sandals.

Detectives are asking anyone with information on the identity of this woman, or who is aware of a recent missing woman fitting this description, to call the Newton Street Homicide Unit at 323-846-6556, or the Los Angeles County Coroner's Office at 323-343-0714.

On weekends and during off-hours, call the LAPD 24-hour toll free number at 1-877-LAWFULL (529-3855).